- Must visit
Groninger Museum
Groningen’s flagship museum, known for bold postmodern architecture and changing exhibitions on art, design, and regional history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Utrecht to Groningen
Showing times and prices for Jun 14
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
1 h 51 m
Average duration
1 h 51 m
Trains per day
21
Distance
159 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Utrecht to Groningen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Utrecht to Groningen will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
Of the 21 trains that leave Utrecht for Groningen on Sun, Jun 14, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 14 the direct trains cover the 159 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 51 m .
On Sun, Jun 14 the slowest trains will take 1 h 51 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5278:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers- 5319:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal11:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers
- 625 · 7258:21 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:12 AMGroningen station$401One-way1 transfer
- 629 · 7299:21 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal11:12 AMGroningen station$401One-way1 transfer
IC 5278:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers
- 5278:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers
- 5319:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal11:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers
- 625 · 7258:21 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:12 AMGroningen station$401One-way1 transfer
- 629 · 7299:21 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal11:12 AMGroningen station$401One-way1 transfer
- IC 5278:51 AM1h51Utrecht Centraal10:42 AMGroningen station$401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Utrecht to Groningen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$43 Average price | $24 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Utrecht to Groningen is a bus with an average price of $24 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Utrecht to Groningen:
A bus is $19 (€15) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Utrecht to Groningen costing on average $43 (€35).
The fastest way to travel from Utrecht to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
Other travel options to Groningen take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Utrecht and Groningen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 9m faster (1h 59m by train vs 2h 8m by car) and roughly $0.48 (€0.39) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($43 (€35) vs $44 (€35)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Utrecht to Groningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Groningen trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 ICE 121+IC 3612 · IC 523 | 7:05 AM Utrecht Centraal | 2h37 | 9:42 AM Groningen station | 2 transfers | |
| 625 · 725 | 8:21 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 10:12 AM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 625 · IC 725 | 8:21 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 10:12 AM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| 527 | 8:51 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 10:42 AM Groningen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 527 | 8:51 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 10:42 AM Groningen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 629 · 729 | 9:21 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 11:12 AM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 629 · IC 729 | 9:21 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 11:12 AM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| 531 | 9:51 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 11:42 AM Groningen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 531 | 9:51 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 11:42 AM Groningen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| SPR 28302 · IC 633 · IC 733 | 9:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h17 | 12:12 PM Groningen station | 2 transfers | |
| SPR 28302 · IC 535 | 9:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h47 | 12:42 PM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| SPR 28302 · IC 633 · SPR 6133 | 9:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h30 | 12:25 PM Groningen Europapark | 2 transfers | |
SPR 28302 · IC 633 · IC 733+ ST 37740 | 9:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h25 | 12:20 PM Groningen Europapark | 3 transfers | |
| SPR 28306 · IC 539 | 10:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h47 | 1:42 PM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| SPR 28306 · IC 637 · IC 737 | 10:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h17 | 1:12 PM Groningen station | 2 transfers | |
| SPR 28306 · IC 637 · SPR 6137 | 10:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h30 | 1:25 PM Groningen Europapark | 2 transfers | |
| SPR 28306 · IC 637 · IC 737+ST 37744 | 10:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h25 | 1:20 PM Groningen Europapark | 3 transfers | |
| SPR 28310 · IC 641 · IC 741 | 11:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h17 | 2:12 PM Groningen station | 2 transfers | |
| SPR 28310 · IC 543 | 11:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h47 | 2:42 PM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
| SPR 28310 · IC 641 · SPR 6141 | 11:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h30 | 2:25 PM Groningen Europapark | 2 transfers | |
| SPR 28310 · IC 641 · IC 741+ST 37748 | 11:55 AM Utrecht Maliebaan | 2h25 | 2:20 PM Groningen Europapark | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Utrecht to Groningen by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
Jun 14
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Wed
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Thu
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Why should you book Utrecht to Groningen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Utrecht to Groningen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Utrecht to Groningen.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Utrecht to Groningen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Utrecht to Groningen
NetherlandsNetherlands
Trains from Utrecht to Groningen run on average 76 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 1h 51m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $14 (€11)
Distance 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 1h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€33) |
Trains per day 76 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 51m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $14 (€11)
Train companies: Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Utrecht to Groningen trainsIntercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Utrecht and Groningen from $14 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
NS International | IC Brussel
About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The "IC Brussel" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€85)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Groningen
Things to do in Groningen
Discover the best of Groningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Groningen trip today.
- Recommended
Universiteitsmuseum Groningen
University museum with compact exhibits on science, medicine, and academic history, including interactive displays and historic instruments.
- Recommended
Storyworld
Museum and experience space about comics, animation, and games, especially appealing to families and contemporary visual culture fans.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The central square of Groningen, surrounded by major landmarks and a natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Folkingestraat
One of Groningen’s most loved streets, known for independent shops, heritage façades, and a photogenic atmosphere.
- Must visit
Noorderplantsoen
Popular city park built on former fortifications, ideal for walks, picnics, and experiencing local daily life.
- Vegetarian
Eierbal
A Groningen snack of ragout-coated boiled egg, breaded and deep-fried. It is one of the city’s best-known local specialties, often eaten from snack bars.
- Vegetarian
Groninger Mosterdsoep
A creamy mustard soup made with the region’s sharp Groningen mustard. It is a classic northern Dutch starter and a local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Poffert
A traditional steamed cake from Groningen, usually made with flour, yeast, eggs, milk, and dried fruit. It is often served sliced with butter or syrup.
Bistro 't Gerecht
An established bistro in the city center known for refined French-Dutch dishes in an elegant historic setting. Suitable for a more upscale dinner.
De Uurwerker
A well-known café-restaurant near the university area, popular for casual meals, local beers, and a relaxed Groningen atmosphere.
Mr. Mofongo
A stylish, established venue with an international menu and broad drinks selection, set in a historic canal-side building. Known for its distinctive atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by Dutch standards. Groceries and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and nightlife can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Small tips for taxis are appreciated, but tipping is not expected in cafes or bars.
Qbuzz
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.50
- Day pass
- EUR 7.50
To the city center
Groningen Eelde Airport, Groningen -> Groningen Hoofdstation, Groningen
- Distance
- 11 km
- Travel time
- 30 min
- Check in and out with your OV-chipkaart or contactless bank card on buses and trains.
- You can usually pay by contactless card on local buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a validator is unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Utrecht to Groningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht to Groningen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Utrecht to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€33), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Utrecht to Groningen takes 1h 51m and runs 76 per day.
The distance by train from Utrecht to Groningen is 98 miles (159 km).
The first train from Utrecht to Groningen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Utrecht to Groningen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Utrecht to Groningen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Utrecht to Groningen. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Utrecht to Groningen.
The train station in Utrecht that goes to Groningen is Utrecht Centraal, which connects to Groningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Utrecht to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The train journey from Utrecht to Groningen offers a scenic view of the Dutch countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and expansive farmland.
A day trip from Utrecht to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 51m one way. However, there are 259 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 98 miles (159 km).
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Utrecht to Groningen.
Since both Utrecht and Groningen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Utrecht to Groningen
Utrecht
Groningen
The major train station for departures in Utrecht is Utrecht Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Utrecht Centraal for your trip from Utrecht to Groningen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Spoorstraat and Jaarbeursplein.
Dining
- Restaurant De Rechtbank
- Humphrey's Utrecht
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Utrecht
- NH Utrecht
- Park Plaza Utrecht
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 12,656 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and regional trains
- Hall 2: domestic intercity and sprinter services
- Hall 3: tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Utrecht Centraal
- Tram: Line 22
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Domestic and international connections
Utrecht Maliebaan
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalThe major train station for arrivals in Groningen is Groningen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen for your journey to Groningen from Utrecht.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Stationsweg.
Dining
- De Drie Gezusters
- Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- NH Groningen Hotel
- The Student Hotel Groningen
- City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: regional train platforms
- Hall 3: bus connections
Public transit options for Groningen
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: NS services to various destinations
Groningen Europapark
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingBike RentalGroningen Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free of charge
Bike Parking
- 80 places, covered
Station Plan
- The station is a small regional station with two platforms and a simple layout.
Public transit options for Groningen Noord
- Bus: Line 3, Line 4
- Train: Arriva services to Groningen Central and Delfzijl
More options for your journey from Utrecht to Groningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Groningen and Utrecht
Most popular train connections to Groningen
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